14/09/2026
Two terms that are often used interchangeably. They describe two different things — and understanding the difference is genuinely useful.
A heart attack is a plumbing problem.
Blood flow to part of the heart muscle is reduced or blocked, depriving it of oxygen. The heart usually keeps beating, but the affected heart muscle can become damaged.
Symptoms can include chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, or pain in the jaw, neck, back or arms. Symptoms can be sudden or develop over time.
If something feels wrong, call 000. Don’t wait.
Cardiac arrest is an electrical problem.
The heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing the heart to stop pumping blood effectively. The person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally.
Call 000 and begin CPR straight away. If an AED is available, use it as soon as possible.
The two can be connected — a heart attack can sometimes trigger cardiac arrest. But they are distinct events, and the response to each matters.
Knowing the difference is the kind of information worth having before you need it.